What To Do If Your Pregnant Dog Has Diarrhea

What to do if your dog has diarrhea while pregnant? This is a question that many dog owners ask, and the answer can be complicated.

Dog diarrhea can be caused by a variety of things, from dietary changes to parasites. If your dog is pregnant, it is important to get her treated for any underlying causes of her diarrhea as soon as possible.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of dog diarrhea during pregnancy and how you can treat it.

If your pregnant dog has diarrhea, you should try home remedies like feeding her a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice, ensure she rests, keep her hydrated, maintain her cleanliness, and consult with a vet for possible probiotics or anti-diarrhea medication, while monitoring for any additional symptoms or severe diarrhea.

What To Do If Your Pregnant Dog Has Diarrhea

Pregnancy can cause a variety of illnesses in dogs. Some of the more common ones include morning sickness, anemia, and weight gain. Morning sickness is often caused by hormonal changes and can be accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. Here is what you can do if your pregnant dog has diarrhea:

1. Make sure they rest

Many pregnant dogs will start to nest around this time. This means they will be looking for a safe, comfortable place to have their puppies. It is important to provide your pregnant dog with a quiet, secluded area where she can relax and rest.

During the last few weeks of pregnancy, your dog’s energy levels will start to decrease as she prepares for labor. It is important to let her rest and not over-exercise her during this time.

Pregnant dogs need extra rest because their bodies are working hard to support the growing puppies. Diarrhea can make them even more tired, so it’s important to give them a break from activities and let them sleep as much as they need. If your dog is showing signs of fatigue, make sure she has a quiet place to rest and relax.

In addition to physical exhaustion, diarrhea can also be emotionally draining for pregnant dogs. They may feel anxious or stressed about their condition, which can worsen the diarrhea. Giving your dog some extra love and attention during this time can help her feel better and ease her symptoms.

2. Feed your dog small amounts of broth

There are many reasons why broth is good for dogs with diarrhea. First, it contains electrolytes that can help to replenish those that have been lost due to the diarrhea. Second, it is easy to digest and will not make the diarrhea worse.

Third, it can help to hydrate the dog and prevent dehydration. fourth, it may help to soothe the stomach and intestines, and fifth, it can provide nutrients that the dog may be lacking due to diarrhea.

When a dog has diarrhea, its digestive system is working overtime to try and process everything. This can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances very quickly.

Feeding small amounts frequently will help keep your dog hydrated and their electrolytes in balance. It is also important to avoid giving your dog any fatty or greasy foods as this can make the diarrhea worse.

3. Consult with a vet to start with probiotics

There are many different types of probiotics available for pregnant dogs, and the best one for your dog will depend on the underlying cause of his or her diarrhea.

Probiotics can be administered orally, in the form of a pill or powder, or they can be given rectally, as a suppository. Your veterinarian can help you determine which method is best for your pregnant dog.

Probiotics work by restoring the normal balance of bacteria in the intestine. This helps to reduce inflammation and allows the intestines to absorb nutrients more effectively. Probiotics also produce compounds that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast.

4. If the diarrhea is severe, visit the vet

IV fluids are important for dogs with diarrhea because they can help to prevent or treat dehydration. Dehydration can be a serious complication of diarrhea, and it is important to make sure that your dog stays hydrated.

IV fluids can also help to flush out the gastrointestinal tract and reduce the risk of developing an electrolyte imbalance.

If your dog has diarrhea, it is important to talk to your veterinarian about whether or not IV fluids would be beneficial.

Some dogs may need to be hospitalized and receive IV fluids through a catheter, while others may be able to go home with oral rehydration solutions.

Your veterinarian will be able to determine what is best for your dog based on their individual case.

Common Causes of Diarrhea In Pregnant Dogs

Common causes of diarrhea in pregnant dogs include hormonal changes, infections, stress, dietary changes, and the physical pressure of growing puppies on the intestines.

Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy triggers a range of hormonal changes in a dog’s body, which can sometimes lead to diarrhea. These fluctuations might cause gastrointestinal upset, particularly in the stages leading up to labor.

Infections

Bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections are also common cause of diarrhea in pregnant dogs. Infections such as Salmonella, E. coli, and parvovirus can disrupt the digestive system resulting in diarrhea.

Stress

Pregnancy and the process of delivery can be stressful for dogs, potentially leading to diarrhea. This is particularly true if there are complications or if the dog is in an uncomfortable environment.

Dietary Changes

Pregnant dogs often have dietary changes to support the growth of their puppies. These changes can sometimes upset their digestive system, causing diarrhea. It’s important to gradually transition your dog to a new diet to minimize this risk.

Physical Pressure

As the puppies grow inside their mother’s uterus, they put increasing pressure on her intestines. This can disrupt normal digestion and potentially result in diarrhea, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

Read this case study from National Library of Medicine about diarrhea in dogs.

Is It Normal For My Pregnant Dog To Have Diarrhea?

Yes, it is actually quite normal for pregnant dogs to experience bouts of diarrhea. This is due to all of the changes that are taking place in their bodies as they prepare for birth.

If your dog is generally healthy and her diarrhea is not accompanied by other symptoms, then there is no cause for concern.

However, if diarrhea persists or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or a loss of appetite, then you should take her to the vet for a check-up.

Pregnant dogs often have trouble digesting their food properly due to all of the hormonal changes taking place in their bodies.

This can lead to episodes of diarrhea. If your dog’s diarrhea is persistent or severe, she may need some special dietary assistance from her vet.

There are a few things you can do to help your dog feel better if they have diarrhea. First, cut back on their food intake and give them smaller meals more often throughout the day. Second, make sure they’re getting plenty of fluids.

Offer them water or an electrolyte solution like Pedialyte to keep them hydrated. Finally, add some plain cooked pumpkin to their food. Pumpkin is a natural source of fiber that can help firm up their stool.

If your dog’s diarrhea persists for more than a day or two, consult your veterinarian. They may need medication to help get things under control.

In severe cases, diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to seek professional medical care if your dog is pregnant and has diarrhea says VCAHospitals.

Is It Normal For Dogs To Have Diarrhea Before Giving Birth?

Yes, it is normal for dogs to have diarrhea before giving birth and this occurs due to the release of hormones that are released prior to labor which can cause gastrointestinal upset, including the production of loose stools or diarrhea.

Additionally, the physical movement involved in childbirth may cause a dog’s rectum and intestines to contract, leading to loose stool.

However, if your pregnant dog has persistent or severe diarrhea it is important to seek veterinary treatment as this can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention.

It is also important not to provide any medication without consulting your veterinarian first. That said, mild cases usually clear up shortly after birth as hormonal levels return back to normal.

Therefore, if your pet is otherwise healthy there should be no cause for concern says AKC.

Can Diarrhea Harm The Puppies Inside a Pregnant Dog?

Diarrhea in a pregnant dog can potentially harm the unborn puppies if it is severe or prolonged, as it can lead to dehydration and nutrient loss that could affect the mother’s health and thereby indirectly impact the puppies.

When a pregnant dog experiences diarrhea, her body may lose essential nutrients and fluids faster than they can be replaced.

This could lead to dehydration, which if severe, can compromise the mother’s health and potentially affect the puppies.

The mother dog might become weak, making it difficult for her to adequately nourish her developing puppies or to give birth safely.

Moreover, diarrhea could be a symptom of an underlying health issue such as a bacterial or viral infection, which could potentially be passed on to the puppies if not treated promptly says PDSA.

Do Pregnant Dogs Have Runny Poop?

Yes, pregnant dogs can have runny poop. This is because their bodies are going through so many changes and they are producing more hormones.

If your dog’s poop is very watery or has blood in it, then you should take her to the vet. Otherwise, runny poop is perfectly normal for a pregnant dog. Just make sure she has plenty of fresh water to drink and that she isn’t eating anything that could give her an upset stomach.

There are a few reasons why pregnant dogs may have diarrhea. One reason is that their hormones are changing, which can cause changes in their digestive system.

Another reason is that they may be eating more than usual, which can also lead to digestive issues. Finally, some dogs simply get nervous when they know they’re going to have puppies, and this can lead to an upset stomach.

The average pregnancy in dogs lasts 63 days but can range anywhere from 56 to 70 days. During the final three weeks of gestation, puppies gain most of their weight, and their organs mature.

Signs that labor is imminent include restlessness, panting, drooling, isolated behavior, frequent urination, and vomiting says New Ulm.

When Should You Be Concerned About Your Pregnant Dog’s Diarrhea?

You should be concerned about your pregnant dog’s diarrhea if it is severe, persistent, accompanied by other worrying symptoms, or if the dog appears to be in distress, as this could indicate a serious underlying condition that could affect the health of the mother and her unborn puppies.

Diarrhea in a pregnant dog can potentially be harmful if it is severe or long-lasting, leading to dehydration and loss of essential nutrients.

It’s especially concerning if the diarrhea is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, or blood in the stool, as these could indicate a more serious underlying condition like an infection or a complication related to pregnancy.

Furthermore, diarrhea could be a sign of imminent labor, particularly if it is coupled with other signs of labor such as restlessness, shivering, fast breathing, and clear or bloody discharge says Animal Biome.

FAQs

Q: Is diarrhea common during pregnancy in dogs?

A: It is not uncommon for pregnant dogs to experience occasional bouts of diarrhea due to hormonal changes, dietary adjustments, or stress. However, persistent or severe diarrhea should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Q: Can I give any over-the-counter medication to my pregnant dog with diarrhea?

A: It is important to always consult with a veterinarian before giving any medication, including over-the-counter remedies, to a pregnant dog. Some medications may be unsafe for pregnant dogs or could potentially harm the developing puppies.

Q: Should I change my pregnant dog’s diet if she has diarrhea?

A: If the diarrhea is mild and the pregnant dog is otherwise healthy, it may be helpful to temporarily switch to a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice, to ease digestive upset. However, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian for guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs says Vet Cornell.

Q: What should I do if my pregnant dog has bloody diarrhea?

A: Bloody diarrhea in a pregnant dog can be a sign of a serious condition and requires immediate veterinary attention. Contact your veterinarian right away and follow their instructions.

Q: Can stress cause diarrhea in a pregnant dog?

A: Yes, stress can be a contributing factor to diarrhea in pregnant dogs. It is important to provide a calm and comfortable environment for the pregnant dog, minimize any unnecessary stressors, and consult with a veterinarian for further guidance.

Q: Are there any home remedies for diarrhea in pregnant dogs?

A: While there are some home remedies that might help alleviate mild diarrhea, such as a bland diet or probiotics, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian before trying any remedies to ensure they are safe for the pregnant dog and her puppies.

Q: Can I prevent diarrhea in my pregnant dog?

A: While it is not always possible to prevent diarrhea in a pregnant dog, there are certain measures you can take to minimize the risk. These include maintaining a balanced and high-quality diet, avoiding sudden dietary changes, providing clean water, regular parasite control, and minimizing stress says PetCoach.

In Conclusion

Diarrhea is a common issue among pregnant dogs. Providing a comfortable space for your dog to rest, feeding small amounts of broth, and starting probiotics under veterinary guidance can help alleviate symptoms.

It’s important to avoid fatty and greasy foods and visit the vet if the diarrhea is severe, as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can occur. With proper care and attention, pregnant dogs can recover from diarrhea and enjoy a healthy pregnancy.